Polis works on Hidden Gems Wilderness

Congressman Jared Polis (D-CO) released today an updated schedule of public events—including three community forums—for public review of the Hidden Gems Wilderness Proposal. The “Hidden Gems Coalition” recently submitted to the Congressman a formal proposal for new designated wilderness areas in the White River National Forest within Summit and Eagle Counties. Polis is asking all affected stakeholders for their input and full participation in an extensive public review process.

“After receiving the coalition’s proposal, we now need the help of every possible stakeholder to put it under the microscope and make sure it checks out, before my office decides if or how we go forward,” Polis said. “Our goal is to examine this proposal area by area, trail by trail, and gather as much public input as possible. At the end of the day, if there are areas that are appropriate for wilderness designation, we will seriously consider thoughtful legislation for those specific areas, but we will not pursue wilderness where it is not appropriate.”

Rep. Jared Polis

Polis will host three public community forums in Boulder (June 1), Edwards (June 3), and Breckenridge (June 4) to allow area residents and affected stakeholders to share their input, dissect proposal maps, and address questions regarding the Hidden Gems Wilderness Proposal with Congressman Polis. Congressman Polis’ Frisco office is also holding open office hours (schedule at www.polis.house.gov/calendar) with his district representative for the area, Nissa Erickson.

Polis has also set up a page on his website—www.polis.house.gov/wilderness—where residents can view maps of the Hidden Gems Proposal, learn more about wilderness and the process of wilderness designation, and submit comments on the individual areas under consideration in the proposal.

Residents may also directly email comments on the Hidden Gems Proposal to [email protected] Interested individuals can contact Nissa Erickson at 970.668.3240 to schedule a separate meeting.